Fact check: How does penis size change with age from puberty to old age?

1. Summary of the results

The relationship between penis size and age from puberty to old age is complex and influenced by various factors ^[1]. Hormonal changes during puberty play a significant role in penile growth, as evidenced by studies on hormone therapy in children with micropenis ^[2]. However, these studies do not directly address the natural growth pattern across the entire lifespan. Penile length in newborns and adolescents has been studied, providing growth curves and charts, but this does not directly inform us about changes from puberty to old age ^[3]. A cross-sectional study of 6200 males aged 0 to 19 years offers valuable insights into the growth of male external genitalia, including penile length, during young adulthood ^[1]. As men age, serum testosterone levels decrease, but there is no significant correlation found between stretched penile length and age in men over 50 years old ^[4]. Aging affects the penis in various ways, including the onset of erectile dysfunction, smooth muscle loss, and fibrosis, with conditions like obesity, prostate surgery, and Peyronie's disease potentially appearing to decrease penis length ^{[5] [6]}. Erectile function, penis sensitivity, and urinary symptoms also change with age, with the importance of nitric oxide in combating oxidative stress highlighted ^{[5] [6]}.

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

A key missing context is the longitudinal study of penile growth from puberty through old age, which would provide direct evidence of how penis size changes over a lifetime ^[2]. The genetic predisposition to aging-related apoptosis of smooth muscle cells and its impact on erectile dysfunction is an important aspect that requires further exploration ^[5]. Lifestyle factors, such as diet, exercise, and overall health, and their influence on penile health and size over time are not addressed in the provided analyses. The psychological impact of perceived changes in penis size or function with age on men's self-esteem and sexual health is also a crucial aspect that needs consideration ^[6]. Furthermore, the role of medical conditions and their treatments in affecting penile size and function, such as diabetes, heart disease, and medications, is an area that requires more in-depth analysis ^[6].

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement implies a direct and straightforward relationship between penis size and age, which oversimplifies the complex interplay of factors influencing penile growth and health across the lifespan ^{[2] [1]}. The analyses suggest that penis size does not necessarily decrease with age, contrary to what might be implied by the original statement ^[4]. The emphasis on physical changes might overlook the psychological and emotional aspects of aging and sexual health, potentially leading to a biased understanding of what happens to the penis as men age ^[6]. The sources benefiting from this framing are those focusing on the physical aspects of aging and penile health, while those considering psychological, lifestyle, and genetic factors might offer a more comprehensive understanding ^{[1] [5]}.